Motoring Today Column

Sep 18, 2019

Most of us take mobility for granted because moving from one place to another is a convenient factor in our lives. Having a private vehicle or commuting by public transport have always been there to take one to work, play, worship or socialize.

But to many whose movements are impeded by age, illness, or physical condition, mobility is a major issue.

Many auto manufacturers have specially-built vehicles for persons with disabilities (PWDs). We've seen those vehicles in motor shows abroad for years. Yet, it was only last week when an automotive manufacturer devoted a launching ceremony to introduce a special vehicle feature offering mobility to PWDs.

Last Thursday, Maxus PH, the local importer and distributor of one of Europe's most recognized commercial vehicle brands, formally launched the G10 Assist package.

Maxus Philippines is the sixth automotive brand partner under Ayala Group's AC Industrials.

The G10 Assist has a programmable lifting seat at the second row beside the sliding door that swivels to face the sidewalk, slides out and then is lowered to street level allowing the elderly or the PWD to disembark with ease.

The programmable swivel lifting seat is operated via remote control or through mobile phone via an IOS app.

It has a position memory function, path recover function, path obstacle sensor, door interlock, low-power detection and warning, mechanical manual function and anti-tip protection.

It's a neat feature that cuts the lengthy - and oftentimes painful - movements of loading a PWD from wheelchair to car, and back to wheelchair after reaching a destination. The process will be repeated when the person later will board the vehicle to go home.

Mobility to PWDs is not only for leisure, it is a need so one can continue to be a productive member of society.

It is ideal that the assist feature is offered in the G10, a 9-seater van that is powered by a Euro4 1.9L Turbo Diesel Common-rail Direct Injection engine. It has a 6-speed automatic transmission that produces 150 Ps of power and a 350 Nm of torque.

Inside the cabin of the Maxus G10 are four captain seats, power adjustable seat for the driver and front passenger and flexible seating at the rear to provide a spacious luggage room.

Passengers can be entertained by a 7-inch touchscreen radio with Bluetooth, USB with 6 speakers system, a 220-volt power supply and front and rear air-conditioning system.

Its safety features which meets global standards, have been established by its integrated body structure, front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, 3-point seatbelts on all seats, ISOFIX, front and rear parking sensors, and rear camera.

The G10 is priced at Php1,680,000.00 and the Assist device, as dealer option, is available at an additional cost of Php399,800.00.

It has a vehicle warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms, whichever comes first. Plus, one is entitled to 24/7 emergency roadside assistance, a pick-up and delivery service, and on-site servicing for corporate fleet accounts.

Felipe Estrella III , Automobile Central Enterprise, Inc. president, at the launching ceremony, explained the value of the G10 Assist very well:

"With the G10 Assist, we can help our beloved family members with disabilities become more empowered and mobile, as the G10 Assist opens a world of new possibilities for them. "PWD" can now be enhanced to"PWeDe" as the G10 Assist MAXimizestransport options and MAXimizes assistance with a platform for them to live life to the max. MAX madali ang buhay pag may G10 Assist!"

"Ask anyone who looks after a beloved elderly family member or someone who experiences difficulty with mobility. A conventional van, MPV, SUV, or sedan usually is not equipped to accommodate PWDs and their wheelchairs, which presents travel challenges. Boarding and disembarking them from their vehicles take considerable time and effort and these limitations further diminish their travel options," he said.

Informing the audience that the United Nations will observe the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, Estrella said: "We at Maxus Philippines are doing our share to help develop the world that the UN envisions as"inclusive, equitable, and sustainable for everyone, where the rights of PWDs are fully realized."

On the other hand, Reginald See, Maxus Philippines General Manager, cited the joy of family celebration that the new G10 Assist will help bring.

"They (PWDs and elderly) can now join their family in travels and share memorable adventures," he said.

Happy Motoring!!!

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